About the Graduate School

CGA is a joint initiative of four world-class institutions in Cologne, Germany:

• University of Cologne Excellence Cluster on Stress Responses in Aging-Associated Diseases (CECAD)
• University Hospital Cologne
• Max Planck Institute for Biology of Ageing
• Max Planck Institute for Metabolism Research

The program offers exceptional training in developmental biology, evolutionary biology, genetics, structural biology, metabolism, and cell biology, with 49 interdisciplinary research groups working at the forefront of ageing science.

What the Program Offers

Successful PhD fellows will benefit from:

• Fully funded 3+ year contracts under TV-L E13 (65%) or Max Planck equivalent
• An international research environment with cutting-edge facilities
• Comprehensive PhD training program conducted entirely in English
• Dedicated supervision and mentoring via thesis advisory committees
• Career coaching plus methodology and soft skills courses
• Annual conference travel grants
• Full relocation and visa support for international students
• A vibrant academic and cultural life in Cologne, Germany

Candidate Profile

CGA seeks highly motivated and talented candidates who have:

• An MSc or equivalent degree in:
  • Biology
  • Molecular or Cell Biology
  • Biochemistry
  • Bioengineering
  • Bioinformatics
  • Biophysics
  • Genetics
  • Medical Biology
  • Translational Medicine
  • Or related disciplines
• Excellent academic records in BSc and MSc studies
• Strong passion for ageing research
• Proficiency in English at C1 level (written and spoken)

Application Details

• Application Period: August 12 – November 3, 2025
• Start Date: Between July 1 – October 1, 2026
• How to Apply: Submit online via the CGA Application Portal
• Contact: cga-coordination@uni-koeln.de
• Website: www.ageing-grad-school.de

Diversity and Inclusion

CGA is deeply committed to equal opportunities and diversity.

• Applications from women are strongly encouraged.
• Applicants with disabilities will be given preference in cases of equal qualifications.
• The program actively welcomes international researchers from all backgrounds.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. How many positions are available?
There are 12 fully funded PhD positions.

2. What is the duration of the PhD program?
At least 3 years, with possible extensions.

3. Do I need to speak German?
No. The entire program is conducted in English.

4. Can international students apply?
Yes. CGA provides full support for visas and relocation.

5. What is the salary?
PhD fellows are paid under TV-L E13 (65%) or equivalent Max Planck contracts.

6. What is the deadline?
Applications close on November 3, 2025.

Key Highlights

• Total PhD Positions: 147
• Funding: Fully funded (€16,243/year + research & travel allowances)
• Application Deadline: August 20, 2025 – 12:00 PM (Italian Time)
• Program Start Date: November 1, 2025
• Mode of Application: Online via PICA platform

Available PhD Programs

The University offers doctoral research opportunities in diverse areas, including:

• Agricultural Sciences
• Neuroscience & Imaging
• Biomolecular & Pharmaceutical Sciences
• Medical Biotechnologies
• Engineering Science
• Economics & Statistics
• English Studies
• Psychology
• Cultural Heritage Studies
• Business & Behavioural Sciences
• Molecular Oncology & Tumor Immunology
• Innovative Strategies for Wellbeing
• Translational Medicine
• Social Sciences
• Legal Sciences for Sustainability
• Kinesiology
  …and more.

Eligibility Criteria

Applicants must hold:

• A Master’s degree (or equivalent)
• An Italian “Laurea Vecchio Ordinamento”
• A recognized foreign qualification equivalent to a Master’s degree

Note: Candidates completing their degrees by October 31, 2025 can apply conditionally.

Not Eligible: Applicants who already hold a PhD or have received a PhD scholarship in Italy before.

Selection Process

The selection is carried out in two stages:

1. Preselection: Based on research proposal (minimum score: 15/25)
2. Oral Interview:
   • CV Evaluation – 40 points
   • Research Proposal – 50 points
   • Foreign Language Skills – 10 points

A minimum total of 60/100 points is required for admission. Each program may have specific criteria listed in Attachment 1 of the official call.

Scholarship & Financial Support

• Annual gross amount: €16,243
• +10% annual research fund
• Up to 50% scholarship increase for research abroad (max 12 months)
• Monthly payments around the 25th
• Students without scholarships pay only €156/year in fees

International Students & Visa Support

• Admitted non-EU students must register via Universitaly for visa purposes
• The university provides full guidance for visa and enrollment procedures

Enrollment & Fees

• Enrollment begins right after ranking list publication
• Accepted candidates must pay a €256 registration fee within 7 days
• Late or missing enrollment leads to automatic disqualification

Why Study at the University of Chieti-Pescara?

• Vibrant academic community with two beautiful campuses in Chieti and Pescara
• English-taught PhD programs in multiple disciplines
• State-of-the-art research facilities and strong international collaborations
• Located in the heart of Italy, offering rich cultural and lifestyle experiences

How to Apply

Applications must be submitted online via the PICA platform.

Required Documents:

• Valid ID or passport
• CV (European format)
• Research proposal
• Degree certificate or transcript
• Diploma Supplement (if applicable)

Application Fee: €40 per program (separate application for each course)

Contact for Queries:
Email: scuolasuperiore@unich.it
Tel: +39 0871 355 6164

Tip: Apply early to avoid last-minute platform slowdowns. Late or incomplete applications will not be considered.

Important Dates

• Deadline: August 20, 2025 (12:00 PM Italian Time)
• Start Date: November 1, 2025

If you’re looking for a fully funded PhD in Italy, the University of Chieti-Pescara offers a world-class research environment, strong mentorship, and generous financial support. Apply now and take the next step toward becoming a global research leader.

Official Call & Application Portal: PICA Platform – Apply Here

Quick Overview of the PhD Call 2025

• University: University of Chieti-Pescara (Università degli Studi “G. d’Annunzio”)
• Number of PhD Positions: 147
• Scholarship Type: Fully funded (approx. €16,243 per year, with additional travel/research top-ups)
• Application Deadline: August 20, 2025 – 12:00 PM (Italian Time)
• PhD Program Start Date: November 1, 2025
• Application Mode: Online via the PICA platform

Research Areas and PhD Programs Available

The call covers a wide range of academic fields. Some of the major research areas include:

• Agricultural Sciences
• Neuroscience and Imaging
• Biomolecular and Pharmaceutical Sciences
• Medical Biotechnologies
• Engineering Science
• Economics and Statistics
• English Studies
• Psychology
• Cultural Heritage Studies
• Business and Behavioural Sciences
• Molecular Oncology and Tumor Immunology
• Innovative Strategies for Wellbeing
• Translational Medicine
• Social Sciences
• Legal Sciences for Sustainability
• Kinesiology

For the complete list of PhD programs and specific research topics, refer to Attachment 1 in the official call.

Eligibility Criteria for Applicants

To be eligible, candidates must hold one of the following:

• A Master’s degree (or equivalent qualification)
• An Italian “Laurea Vecchio Ordinamento”
• A foreign degree recognized as equivalent to a Master’s

Students expecting to complete their degree by October 31, 2025 may apply conditionally.

Note: Candidates who already hold a PhD or have previously received a PhD scholarship in Italy are not eligible for funding.

Admission and Selection Process

All applicants must pass a two-phase evaluation:

1. Preselection – Based on the submitted research proposal
   • Minimum score to pass: 15/25
2. Oral Interview – Includes evaluation of:
   • CV: 40 points
   • Research Proposal: 50 points
   • Foreign Language Skills: 10 points

Minimum total score: 60/100
Evaluation criteria may vary by program – check course-specific details in the official call.

Scholarship Benefits and Financial Support

Each PhD scholarship offers:

• Annual gross amount: €16,243
• Additional 10% research allowance annually
• Up to 50% increase for research abroad (max 12 months)
• Monthly payment around the 25th of each month
• No overlapping grants permitted

Non-scholarship students pay only €156/year in tuition fees.

Visa Support for International Students

Accepted international students needing a visa must register via Universitaly. The university provides assistance throughout the visa and enrollment process to ensure a smooth transition.

Enrollment Guidelines

• Rankings will be published post-selection
• Selected candidates must pay a €256 registration fee within 7 days
• Missing the deadline results in automatic disqualification

Why Choose the University of Chieti-Pescara?

Located between the cities of Chieti and Pescara, this Italian public university is known for:

• State-of-the-art research infrastructure
• Interdisciplinary academic environment
• Inclusive campus for international students
• English-taught PhD programs
• Strategic location on Italy’s Adriatic coast

Whether you’re interested in life sciences, humanities, engineering, or social sciences, this university fosters global academic excellence.

How to Apply Online

• Apply via the PICA Platform: https://pica.cineca.it/unich/
• Prepare the following documents:
  • Valid passport or ID
  • Curriculum Vitae (in European format)
  • Research Proposal
  • Academic transcripts / diploma supplements
• Application Fee: €40 per course/program
• Multiple applications allowed (submit each one separately)

Contact for queries: scuolasuperiore@unich.it
Phone: +39 0871 3556164

Final Reminder

Deadline: August 20, 2025 – 12:00 PM (Italian Time)
Avoid last-minute delays due to technical slowdowns. Late or incomplete applications will not be accepted.

Ready to Pursue a Fully Funded PhD in Italy?

If you’re aiming to build a research career in Europe, the University of Chieti-Pescara offers the ideal platform to grow. With 147 fully funded PhD positions, world-class supervision, and international collaboration opportunities, this could be your gateway to academic success.

Apply Now and start your PhD journey in Italy!
Visit: https://www.unich.it

Available PhD Fields

LAMMC is inviting applications from motivated students worldwide in the following research areas:

• Agronomy
• Forestry
• Biochemistry
• Ecology and Environmental Science

Why Choose LAMMC for Your PhD in Lithuania?

Joining LAMMC means becoming part of a vibrant, research-driven academic community with cutting-edge facilities and a global outlook. Here are the key benefits:

• Monthly PhD stipend:
  • €741/month in Year 1
  • €858/month from Year 2 to Year 4
• Annual research funding for experimental work
• Opportunities for international internships and academic networking
• No in-person interviews required—apply and interview online
• Start date: October 1, 2025

Research Focus and Facilities

LAMMC provides a strong foundation for high-impact research across agriculture, forestry, and environmental sciences. With access to:

• State-of-the-art laboratories
• Data-driven research tools
• Leading European researchers
• Real-world problem-solving through innovation

This program is ideal for students seeking a research-oriented PhD in a collaborative and forward-thinking environment.

PhD Application Process and Eligibility

To apply for the LAMMC PhD programs, candidates must participate in an open competition organized in June or September (depending on the field). The selection is based on:

• Academic record (Master’s GPA)
• Published or accepted scientific articles
• Online or in-person motivation interview

Required Documents

Ensure you have the following documents ready for application:

• Master’s degree diploma + supplement (with notarized English translation)
• Curriculum Vitae (CV)
• Motivational letter
• Two academic recommendation letters
• List and copies of publications (if any)
• Passport or national ID copy
• Qualification recognition certificate (may take 3+ months)
• Filled electronic application form
  • Apply Online Here
• Email all documents to: lammc@lammc.lt

Important Notes for International Students

• Non-EU citizens must apply for a Lithuanian D Visa
• Temporary housing is available, but long-term accommodation is the student’s responsibility
• Start qualification recognition process early through SKVC (www.skvc.lt)

PhD Program Structure and Requirements

This is a full-time, 4-year doctoral program. Requirements for successful completion include:

• Completion of 30 ECTS doctoral coursework
• Execution of independent research
• Participation in at least 2 academic conferences (1 must be international)
• Publication of at least 2 peer-reviewed articles
• Successful dissertation defense

Optional Thesis Format

Your doctoral thesis may consist of 4 published research articles indexed in Clarivate Analytics (Impact Factor journals).

How to Apply for LAMMC PhD 2025

1. Prepare your documents
2. Fill out the online application: Click here to apply
3. Email your complete application to: lammc@lammc.lt

Final Thoughts

This is an excellent opportunity for aspiring PhD students interested in sustainable agriculture, forest science, and environmental innovation. Lithuania offers a high standard of education with affordable living and a welcoming international environment.

Apply today and take the next step in your academic and research career in Europe!

Join one of Europe’s most innovative research teams and work on real-world problems affecting apple orchards in South Tyrol, Italy.

PhD Position 1: Ecological Study of Woolly Apple Aphid (Eriosoma lanigerum) in Organic Apple Orchards

Research Overview:

This project focuses on studying the infestation patterns of woolly apple aphids in apple orchards. These pests pose a significant threat to organic apple production in the South Tyrol region.

Project Objectives:

• Investigate ecological and agronomic factors influencing aphid spread.
• Apply multifactorial modeling techniques on extensive field data.
• Develop eco-friendly and sustainable pest control strategies for local farmers.

Candidate Requirements:

• Master’s degree in Agricultural Sciences, Biological Sciences, Ecology, or Biotechnology.
• Experience with field surveys, data analysis, and ecological modeling.
• Valid driver’s license (for independent fieldwork).

Key Research Activities:

• Conduct orchard phenology and soil surveys.
• Analyze physiological and ecological data.
• Perform statistical modeling using multifactorial approaches.

PhD Position 2: Molecular Identification of Parasitoids in Asian Stink Bug (Halyomorpha halys) Eggs

Research Overview:

This PhD position explores the molecular ecology of parasitoid wasps in the egg masses of the invasive Asian stink bug. It aims to support biological pest control programs.

Project Objectives:

• Assess the effectiveness of Trissolcus japonicus as a biological control agent.
• Investigate interactions between native and introduced parasitoids.
• Use next-generation sequencing (NGS) to uncover cryptic parasitoid species.

Candidate Requirements:

• Master’s degree in Agricultural Sciences, Biotechnology, or a related field.
• Strong background in molecular biology and bioinformatics.
• Field experience and proficiency in English.

Key Research Activities:

• Collect stink bug egg masses in the field.
• Rear parasitoids in the laboratory.
• Conduct DNA-based analysis of unhatched eggs.

Why Choose the Free University of Bozen-Bolzano?

• Located in the scenic Alps with access to diverse ecosystems
• Trilingual teaching environment (English, Italian, German)
• Access to the renowned Competence Centre for Plant Health
• Collaborative research with Schuler Lab and Laimburg Research Centre
• Strong focus on applied, interdisciplinary research

Important Application Information

• Application Deadline: June 11, 2025, at 12:00 noon (CET)
• Start Date: November 2025
• Funding: Fully funded (tuition + stipend)
• Location: South Tyrol, Northern Italy

Contact for Informal Inquiries:

Dr. Hannes Schuler
Email: hannes.schuler@unibz.it

Visit the Competence Centre for Plant Health
Explore the Schuler Lab
Apply via the Official PhD Program Portal

Quick Summary Table